The 10-2 win marked the second-largest margin of victory for the Tigers this year. And, given the way the club had played during its most recent road trip, it came at the right time.

"It's nice to get that first one, particularly after a tough trip and in front of a nice crowd," Leyland said. "It's nice to get that one on the board."

After securing a 1 ½-game lead in the AL Central following a three-game sweep over division rival Chicago shortly after the All-Star break, the Tigers lost all momentum en route to giving away their last three series.

It was a simple move and one that is still too early to judge its success, but in the first two games since Boesch has batted fifth, he’s gone 3-for-9 and added protection that Fielder so desperately deserved.

Add in the return of outfielder Andy Dirks and the Tigers’ lifeless offense that had averaged 2.5 runs during the first eight games of a nine-game road trip has now scored 17 combined runs in the last two games.

"That's the way I like to manage, when you have those options and everybody is chipping in," Leyland said.

Is it fair to suggest the Tigers’ offense is rolling because Boesch is now batting fifth against right-handed hitters? No.

Just as it’s not fair to suggest Dirks might’ve been the missing piece the Tigers needed to get back on track.

But, it is reasonable to say the club should win -- and win a lot -- when the key contributors, well... contribute. And, that’s been the case the past two days -- specifically Friday night.

"We're going to need them all," Leyland said. "That's how you win something."

And, it's not just Dirks and Boesch who Leyland is talking about.

Alex Avila and Quintin Berry each went 2-for-5 with a combined three RBIs. Right-handed hitters Austin Jackson and Omar Infante were 1-for-3 apiece with a run and and RBI.

If the Tigers are to pull away in their division lead, they'll need more of that.

"I know people get on me about that sometimes, but that's the only way you win," Leyland said. "It's always a complete team that wins you something."

Can it happen? It's too early to tell. But the past two games are indication that it's certainly possible.

The team's 16 hits fell two shy of their season high and were the most by the Tigers in a nine-inning game at home since hitting 18 in a 14-0 win over Cleveland last September.

"Nice way to come home and start the home stand," Leyland said. "Everybody doing something. Of course the big guy Prince good night, Miggy good night. Berry, too. Just everybody. Everybody did a good job."

And, that's exactly what the Tigers will need to do in order to keep their momentum intact. An all-around effort. Not a very astute observation, sure. But, it holds true nonetheless.

"That's the only way we're going to win," Leyland said. "If everyone makes those contributions."